A new method combining electrochemistry and photovoltaics is being explored to clean up oxidation reactions. By harnessing solar energy, the need for toxic chemicals can be eliminated, reducing environmental harm. The research aims to make chemical synthesis more efficient and environmentally friendly.
A chemist at Washington University in St. Louis has developed a technique that allows for the simultaneous monitoring of up to 12,000 molecules on an electrochemically addressable computer chip. The method uses a polymer substrate and confining agents to selectively initiate chemical reactions on individual electrodes.
Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a simple electrochemical process for direct patterning of metallic interconnects and nanostructures. The S4 process uses a patterned superionic material as a stamp, etching a metallic film in a single step.